Are you using a physical SPF?

The international travel ban is lifting today and we thought it would be a good time to share the SPFs that we routinely recommend to our patients.

As dermatologists and skincare experts, we are constantly stressing the importance of wearing a daily SPF as the single most anti-aging thing you can do for your skin. We always recommend a physical sunscreen, as opposed to a chemical sunscreen simply because physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and block rays at the surface, while being more photostable than chemical sunscreens. This means that they do not degrade once the sun hits and completely block UVA and UVB rays. Most chemical sunscreens absorb sun rays like a sponge, and chemically react with the skin before releasing heat from the skin. However, as above, we are just happy for you to be wearing any SPF 30+ broad spectrum SPF!

Traditionally physical sunscreens, with zinc or titanium dioxide, have had a reputation for being thick and pasty but the formulas have come a very long way and you can now find the ideal physical SPF, that feels comfortable on your skin, not too thick, not too oily, allows for easy makeup application, and enhances your daily skincare regime.

We have carefully selected our favourite physical SPFs and are the exclusive Irish stockists of two of the brands that we stock. We currently offer three different SPF brands, each of which have multiple variants to suit different skin types. We’ve briefly summarised each one below:

sunbetter® Tone Smart SPF 50 Sunscreen Compact is our newest sunscreen from skinbetter science®. It’s a broad spectrum, 100% mineral-based sun protection in a tone-adapting compact that provides a hint of colour, is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, managing to blend efficacy with elegance. Best for: All skin types. Cost: €65.

Elta MD® UV Clear SPF 46 is Oil-free, paraben free, fragrance free, non-comedogenic and sensitivity free! It helps to calm and protect sensitive skin types prone to discoloration and breakouts associated with acne and rosacea. It contains niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, ingredients that promote the appearance of healthy-looking skin.